Alcohol Misconceptions

The Misconceptions of Alcohol Abuse
IRV MES
[University]

Part I
Abstract
The unsafe use of alcohol has a grave effect on public health and is considered to be one of the main risk aspects for poor health globally. The concept of the harmful use of alcohol is wide-ranging and includes the drinking that causes detrimental in well-being and social consequences for the drinker, the people surrounding the drinker and community at large, as well as the forms of drinking that are related with amplified risk of adverse health consequences. The harmful use of alcohol compromises both individual and social development. It can ruin the lives of individuals, devastate families, and damage the fabric of communities. (WHO,
The commitments should ideally be expressed through adequately funded comprehensive and intersectoral national policies that clarify the contributions, and division of responsibility, of the different partners involved. The policies must be based on available evidence and tailored to local circumstances, with clear objectives, strategies and targets. The policy should be accompanied by a specific action plan and supported by effective and sustainable implementation and evaluation mechanisms. The appropriate engagement of civil society and economic operators is essential.” (WHO, 2011 p.
In small groups, explore the various aspects of technology that have, and are continuing to emerge, around social work practice. As a class, discuss the impact that technology can have on the ethical practice (i.e., how does it affect confidentiality, securing of records, informed consent, inter-agency sharing of information, delivery of services without face-to-face contact, ensuring identity, client access to information via the internet, client access to alternative treatments, etc.
GROUP DISCUSSIONS
1. One of the most difficult aspects of professional ethics arises when there is a concern about impairment of a social work colleague. Discuss how you would know that a colleague is experiencing impairment (i.e., due to alcohol involvement, or it may be due to some other mental health concern), what are the ethical issues that are involved and where do they come from, and what are the possible options available when you suspect this is occurring? What are the ethical pros and cons of the various options? [See Code of Ethics, 2.09]
2. What are the ethical considerations that arise with mandatory reporting policies/laws?
3. What are the ethical considerations that arise with mandated